San Diego --
Members of the United States Marine Corps have been forged on the historic actions of other Marines who were able to do what many wouldn’t. Those Marines exemplified the Marine Corps Core Values and Principles that were taught to them during recruit training. That same training still occurs to this day.
Recruits of Company D, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, received a class on one of the three core values, courage, aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego June 11.
The Marine Corps’ core values and principles are introduced to recruits from the moment they step on the yellow footprints.
Building a foundation early on in recruit training is essential in order for recruits to understand what is expected of them. This allows drill instructors the ability to mold and shape recruits into Marines.
“We give the courage class in the beginning of recruit training to give recruits a base that we can build their core values on and to help them develop their moral compass,” said Sgt. Justin R. Urbany, senior drill instructor, Platoon 1074, Co. D, 1st RTBn. “The Marine Corps is big on core values, which is why our drill instructors constantly reiterate the importance and try to instill the values in them.”
Recruits are taught two types of courage. The first is moral courage, which is defined as having the inner strength to stand up for what is right and to accept blame when something is your fault. The second is physical courage, which is defined as the ability to continue to function effectively when there is physical danger present.
Recruits are constantly confronted with these challenges on a daily basis, whether it be from a physical training event or interacting with Marines of higher rank.
“Courage helps us establish discipline and confidence when dealing with someone of higher authority. It gives us the ability to speak with confidence,” said Recruit Daniel Johnson Jr., guide, Plt. 1075, Co. D, 1st RTBn. “We also utilize courage to correct other recruits or use it to push on when our mind and body is exhausted and telling us to stop.”
Making tough decisions is an issue every leader will run into. Marine Corps leaders have an even greater burden because their decisions in combat have life or death consequences. Having the courage and confidence to make these decisions and in a quick manner is an invaluable asset.
“Courage will teach recruits to take charge and make decisions; hopefully the right ones,” said Urbany. “In combat it will give them the motivation, inspiration, and ability to make a quick decision while taking charge of Marines, which in turn will make them a better leader.”
Developing the mental, moral, and physical strengths of recruit’s core values is just as important as developing their physical training, marksmanship, and discipline. The courageous efforts of Marines in the past have made the Marines of the present stand out. It is something many Marines take pride in as they strive to maintain the tremendous reputation viewed by others.
“As a Marine we hold ourselves to a higher standard,” said Johnson. “The training we receive on courage helps us uphold that standard by giving us confidence, not hesitating with decisions or actions, and ultimately just being a better Marine.”